Community Chest grant to support Citizens Advice drop in sessions in Matlock
A new partnership between ourselves and Citizens Advice Derbyshire Districts is set to provide vital financial and wellbeing support to local people in Matlock, thanks to funding from our Community Chest.
The Citizens Advice branch applied to our Community Chest, a funding pot for our customers and local charities, clubs and other not-for-profit organisations for any projects directly benefitting our customers; all applications are assessed against specific eligibility criteria by customers who sit on our Customer Voice Panel.
The grant has been awarded to help deliver monthly Citizens Advice drop in sessions as part of our new Help Centre project in the town, modelled on the organisation’s successful support initiative in Malvern, Worcestershire.
Held at the Imperial Rooms in central Matlock, the drop in sessions will offer face to face financial support and guidance to residents, with a particular focus on those affected by the on going cost of living crisis. Our staff will signpost customers to the sessions, ensuring those most in need are able to access help with budgeting, debt, benefit claims, housing issues and more.
Melanie Mallinson, Senior Operations Manager at Citizens Advice Derbyshire Districts said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Platform to offer this much needed support. Many of the people we work with are experiencing financial difficulties that are impacting their mental health and general wellbeing. These sessions will offer them a confidential, friendly space to receive advice and take positive steps forward.”
Running until March 2026, the drop ins are expected to benefit around 60 people, with up to half anticipated to be Platform customers.
The sessions will take place in a private room within the Imperial Rooms, ensuring attendees have a safe and confidential environment to discuss sensitive matters.
Tracey Silk, our Community Engagement Officer said: “The Community Chest is a community funding scheme which supports local projects that tackle isolation, promote wellbeing and help build stronger communities. Citizens Advice will work closely with our Successful Tenancies team to ensure customers are aware of the sessions and supported to attend.”
For more information about our Community Chest and the work it supports, visit www.platformhg.com.
Photo caption : The Citizens Advice building in Matlock